Houston – In the first two weeks of training camp, the Broncos’ tailback who emerged as the sharpest was newly signed Ron Dayne, a Heisman Trophy winner at Wisconsin trying to resurrect his NFL career in a system similar to the one in which he enjoyed collegiate glory.
The Broncos signed Dayne because he fits their one-cut, downhill running scheme. In their first preseason game together, the lumbering Dayne clearly was the most productive of the Denver running backs.
“One player who stood out is Ron Dayne,” Broncos coach Mike Shanahan said. “He made some nice runs.”
Dayne led all rushers with 56 yards on 11 carries Saturday night at Reliant Stadium, including a run of 23 yards, in the Broncos’ 20-14 victory over the Houston Texans.
“I’m just glad to get the opportunity,” said Dayne, the New York Giants’ first-round pick in the 2000 draft. “I helped contribute in a win, and that’s what I’m looking to do.”
Dayne is listed fourth on Denver’s depth chart behind starter Mike Anderson, Tatum Bell and Quentin Griffin, who didn’t play because he’s recovering from a torn anterior cruciate ligament. The only tailback Dayne is listed ahead of is rookie Maurice Clarett, who didn’t make the trip because of a groin injury.
Dayne’s performance will go a long way in determining whether he makes the team. Anderson had 12 yards on six carries, Bell just 11 yards on eight carries.
Shanahan said it was difficult to get a read on the backfield battle because Houston played the run so well.
Pryce feels good
Defensive end Trevor Pryce missed most of last season with a back injury that required surgery. Pryce, who started Saturday night and played some with the second unit to get extended playing time, said he felt two things.
First, he felt rusty. Second, and more important, he felt completely healthy.
“The back wasn’t an issue,” Pryce said. “I’m totally healthy, but I was a deer in the headlights out there for a while because I hadn’t played much. It was just a rust thing.”
Pryce said he felt more comfortable as the game went on.
“Next week I should feel even better,” Pryce said. “I can’t wait to get to the quarterback.”
Injury report
Broncos backup safeties Jeremy LeSueur and Chris Young collided trying to make a tackle and injured their knees. Neither injury was considered serious.
Clarett and cornerback Champ Bailey (hamstring), offensive tackle Matt Lepsis (hamstring), defensive tackles Gerard Warren (hamstring) and Mario Fatafehi (knee) and defensive end Courtney Brown (elbow) did not play against the Texans. The Broncos hope Clarett returns to practice Monday.
Davis shines for Denver
Defensive tackle Dorsett Davis came into training camp needing a strong preseason. With the Broncos’ crowded defensive line, it appeared Davis’ best chance was to catch the eye of another team.
Davis may have opened eyes around the league Saturday, but he also opened the eyes of the Broncos. He finished with two tackles and often pressured the quarterback.
